Numerical investigation on train-bridge interaction after ship impact event: train running safety in different scenarios

This work presents a numerical study on the vehicle-bridge dynamic interaction in the catastrophic event of a ship impact. In particular, the objective is to study the behavior of train running safety coefficients as a function of bridge and vehicle mechanical properties. Two representative FE models of a continuous beam bridge were built up, composed of six spans of 80 m, same deck section and different pier heights. By combining this with the possibility of choosing between two distinct rail vehicles, namely Twindexx and ICE, featured by different mechanical properties, it was possible to study the influence of these parameters on the overall train running safety, after the occurrence of ship impact events. In addition, different travelling speeds, different impact intensities were considered, and their effects investigated. Critical running scenarios have been deepened, studying wheel-rail interaction and eventual detachment to physically interpret the results provided by the computation of unloading and derailment coefficients.